MCM-41 mesoporous silica is synthesized based on a self assembly method, using a quaternary
ammonium template, CTAB for the adsorption of sulfur compounds from model oil (1.0
mmol/l DBT in dodecane solution). Then the adsorption capability of MCM-41 assembled
on the surface of bacterium Rhodococcus erythropolis IGTS8 is examined regarding the
improvement of the biodesulfurization process of the oil compound based on the measurement
of DBT consumption rate and 2-HBP production. Study of the model oil desulfurization
by the cells assembled with MCM-41 nanosorbent showed a further improvement in DBT
reduction rate in comparison with the free cells. The results of the investigations showed
that the maximum specific desulfurization activity in terms of DBT consumption rate and
2-HBP production are 0.34 μmol DBT min-1 g DCW-1 and 0.126 μmol 2-HBP min-1 g DCW-1
which indicated an increase of 19% and 16% compared to the highest specific desulfurization
activity of free cells, respectively.